Sorry Adrock -- you probably missed the other two by not more than 30 seconds...
From our experience this weekend and last, I think that when we organize any type of function should designate a contact person with a cell #. The designated person would keep a "real-time" list of who's coming and who's not, etc. (particularly on those iffy-whether days like yesterday).
As far as fall function goes, Brett had suggested to me (a few months ago) having a BBQ branded "Deli
Feast 2007" (as a followup to Deli
Fest 2007). In retrospect, this probably ought to have happened before the Winter Monsoons arrived. However, this could still be a doable option (maybe in conjunction with Erik's suggestion of a
December Toy Run?)